College Test Taking Skills
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College Test Taking Skills
Understanding College Test Patterns
College students encounter various testing frequencies:
- Every class meeting
- Weekly
- Monthly
- Once per semester
- Twice per semester
- All of the above
The correct answer is "all of the above." While some professors may opt for a single comprehensive test at the semester's end, most prefer at least two exams. Typically, this includes a midterm during a regular class and a final during a special exam period. Finals usually last two to three hours, but you might finish sooner or still be working when time is up.
The Frequency of Tests
In many courses, especially those with heavy content like science, frequent testing?"sometimes weekly?"is common. This might seem daunting, but regular tests have advantages. Each test usually impacts your grade less, so a single poor performance won’t heavily affect your average. Consistent good scores on smaller tests can boost your confidence going into major exams. Regular tests also help keep you engaged with the material, preventing a last-minute scramble to relearn everything at the semester's end.
Types of Exams
Objective Tests
In large lecture classes, expect objective tests focusing on factual knowledge. These typically include:
- True-or-false questions
- Matching
- Multiple choice
- Identifications
- Completions
While such tests are easy to grade, they can be tricky. Some questions offer complex answer choices like:
- A
- B
- C
- D
- A, B, and D
- B and C
- A and C
- All of the above
- None of the above
These tests might remind you of standardized exams, challenging even the best students.
Essay Exams
Smaller, discussion-based classes often use essay exams. These require you to organize concepts and provide thoughtful responses, demonstrating both knowledge and analytical skills.
Test Anxiety and Strategy
Not all students perform well on tests. About 25% experience "test anxiety," impacting their performance. Others excel beyond their usual capabilities, leveraging every bit of information available. Professors sometimes inadvertently provide clues within exams, which savvy students can use to their advantage.
For example, consider a history exam question:
During World War II, the President of the United States was:
- A. Harry S Truman
- B. Dwight D. Eisenhower
- C. Franklin D. Roosevelt
- D. Herbert C. Hoover
A later question might read:
During the early days of World War II, President Roosevelt's Secretary of State was:
- A. Henry Wallace
- B. Cordell Hull
- C. George C. Marshall
- D. Douglas MacArthur
If you notice that the second question hints at the answer to the first, you can gain extra points. Always be on the lookout for these clues.
Test Taking Tips
- Answer Everything: Never leave a question blank. Attempting an answer gives you a chance at points, whereas leaving it empty guarantees none.
- Manage Your Time: Be strategic. Don’t spend too much time on questions worth fewer points. Save detailed answers for questions with the greatest value.
- Essay Exams: These require more than knowledge. Organize your thoughts, evaluate the material, and articulate your arguments effectively.
In summary, developing strong test-taking skills can significantly enhance your college experience. Regular study, strategic planning, and astute observation are key to navigating college exams successfully.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: College Test Taking Skills.
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